Climate variable lacrosse heads and related methods of use

Abstract

A first lacrosse head constructed from a first material having first properties or a second lacrosse head constructed from a second material having second properties is selectively used in lacrosse activities, based on environmental conditions, such as temperature, humidity and / or solar activity, to provide generally consistent head performance as perceived by a lacrosse player across a range of environmental conditions. The first and second heads can be identical in structure, but constructed from different materials. For example, the first head can include a polyamide, optionally, Nylon 6,6 polyamide, and the second head can include a high performance polyamide resin, optionally a polypthalamide. An environmental indicator that provides visual and / or audible output with regard to environmental conditions can be included with at least one of the first head, the second head and a shaft to which the heads can be joined. Related methods of use are also provided.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]The present invention relates to lacrosse heads, and more particularly, to lacrosse heads for use in varying environmental conditions.[0002]Conventional lacrosse heads typically include an open frame having a ball stop joined with the base, a pair of sidewalls that diverge from the ball stop, and a scoop that connects the sidewalls, opposite the ball stop. The sidewalls generally include a lower portion, such as a lower rim, that defines multiple circular or elliptical string holes. A lacrosse net is strung to the lower rim via the string holes, around the back side of the frame, leaving the opposing side of the frame open for catching or shooting a lacrosse ball.[0003]A number of conventional lacrosse heads are constructed from plastic, and in particular, nylon 6,6 polyamide. One suitable nylon 6,6 polyamide is Zytel® ST801, which is available from E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company. If designed well, heads constructed from ST801 have good overall ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0009]Lacrosse heads are provided that are constructed for use across, and used to enhance performance in, a variety of environmental conditions.

[0019]The lacrosse head and method of use provided herein provides lacrosse players with a superior mechanism to accurately select a head appropriate for the environmental conditions in which it is to be used. Accordingly, a lacrosse player can use heads which provide the desired consistency in handling, which in turn can improve the player's overall performance.

Problems solved by technology

An issue that arises with heads constructed from ST801 is that while they provide consistent performance in temperatures ranging from 40° F. to about 70° F., their performance can start to wildly vary in temperatures outside this range, which can be common in the game of lacrosse.

In many cases, the outcome is that the shot is short or inaccurate.

In the intense game of lacrosse, this can be extremely frustrating for the player and their team.

Another issue with ST801 is that is tends to be quite hygroscopic, that is, it tends to attract and hold water from the surrounding environment.

In this high humidity, conventional lacrosse heads tend to absorb water and physically swell, which can both change the dimension of the heads slightly, as well as the rigidity and flexibility of the head.

Like higher temperatures, this can ultimately affect the performance of the lacrosse head and the player's ability to shoot and maneuver the head consistently.

For highly skilled and experienced players, this can be frustrating.

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